PM defers local government elections citing economic pressures

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced that local government elections will be deferred until after the next General Election, citing growing global economic pressures and the need for fiscal responsibility.

In a national address, Mr Rabuka said the decision was made by Cabinet after “careful consideration”.

“Today, I address you as your Prime Minister with a heavy but clear sense of responsibility,” he said.

“After careful consideration by Cabinet, I have decided to defer the local government elections to a date to be determined after the coming General Elections.

“This was not an easy decision.”

Mr Rabuka said restoring elected local governments remained a key promise of the Coalition Government.

He said previous administrations had repeatedly promised municipal elections but failed to prepare the necessary legal framework.

“The previous administration had repeatedly promised municipal elections, but had failed to amend a single law or prepare the ground,” he said.

“But this government has taken concrete, serious steps forward.”

Mr Rabuka said Government had already advanced amendments to relevant laws, worked on new regulations, initiated voter registration processes and begun budget preparations for the elections.

“Real progress has been made. We are committed to delivering democratic local councils this year.”

However, he said worsening global conditions had forced Government to reconsider the timing of the polls.

“Events beyond our control now compel us to act with prudence and fiscal responsibility,” Mr Rabuka said.

“Global headwinds have intensified. Oil supply disruptions and sharp price shocks are placing significant pressure on our economy.”

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